Feasibility study of a simple and low-cost device for monitoring trihalomethanes presence in water supply systems based on statistical models

This paper describes a new method for predicting trihalomethanes (THMs) presence in networks of water supply systems, using a low-cost device that permits a fast monitoring of concentrations without need of complex analysis made in laboratories. This method, based on statistical models, allows the estimation of THM concentration by monitoring parameters whose determination is direct and easy, and therefore, THM presence can be carried out in real-time. These parameters values are introduced in a multiple regression model resulting in the concentration of THMs levels. This model has taken into account parameters compulsory in water quality analysis and it has been shown that six parameters are enough to determine accurately THM concentration. In addition, the feasibility of a low-cost device that directly gives THM concentration is demonstrated. This device can be easily designed to be transported to different points of the water supply network where it is intended to make control campaigns.